Mr. Thaveesak Smansin, Assistant Governor of Distribution System Service, alongside Assoc. Prof. Wisanu Subsompon, Deputy Governor of Bangkok, and Dr. Panomporn Suvannapattana, Advisor to the Commissioner at the Office of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission, recently gathered with a host of notable figures. Among them were Mr. Rachan Pensiri, Advisor to the Executive Committee of the Telecommunications Association of Thailand Under The Royal Patronage, and representatives from various agencies including the Royal Thai Police and telecommunications operators. They all came together to support an ambitious project focused on enhancing the infrastructure along Sutthisan Winitchai Road.
The project’s heart lies in the removal of communication cables stretching from the Phahonyothin Road intersection to the Vibhavadi Rangsit Road intersection—a distance covering 1.6 kilometres. The start point is set at the Bangchak gas station on Soi Inthamara 4, Sutthisan Winitchai Road. This initiative marks a significant step forward by MEA, the principal agency responsible for electricity distribution in Bangkok, Nonthaburi, and Samut Prakan. The goal? To organize communication cables in accordance with government and Ministry of Interior policies, integrating ongoing projects aimed at moving these cables underground.
MEA ensures the safety of these undertakings, focusing on minimizing disruptions and enhancing the visual and structural appeal of the area. Consequently, this reduces potential hazards and fortifies the stability of the power system. The removal of communication cables along Sutthisan Winitchai Road will coincide with the sidewalk enhancement project of Bangkok. Excitingly, the entire project is slated for completion by September 2024.
Come 2024, MEA and its partners have bold plans. They intend to place communication cables underground on 32 routes, spanning over 68 kilometres, including vital segments of Sutthisan Winitchai Road, Asok Montri Road, Si Ayutthaya Road, Rama IV Road, and Charan Sanitwong Road. But that’s not all. They also plan to organize cables on an impressive 183 routes, covering more than 570 kilometres, translating to roughly 45 kilometres each month. The aim is to reach an astonishing milestone of organizing cables on 800 kilometres of utility poles by 2025. As part of this endeavor, MEA supports the installation of communication cable racks on poles to keep everything neat and organized, having already completed a substantial 74% of their 2024 installation plan.
Throughout this process, MEA collaborates closely with relevant agencies to ensure that all cable installations meet established standards and MEA’s stringent criteria. Enter the Smart CCM (Smart Communication Cable Management) system—a digital innovation offering online permissions for cable installations, precise data recording, and mapping within MEA’s GIS. This system is a game-changer, streamlining the management of new cable installations efficiently.
But wait, there’s more. The grand vision extends to MEA’s underground power cable project, aiming to complete 313.5 kilometres by 2029. This project is seamlessly integrated with the underground communication cable initiative, designed to minimize the impact on residents and ensure a smoother transition.
Still, issues may arise. If residents encounter problems with disorganized or unsafe communication cables, or damaged communication poles, help is readily available. You can report these issues to the NBTC hotline at 1200, through LINE@ at @nbtc1200, or by clicking on NBTC. For any issues concerning unsafe MEA electrical equipment, the MEA Smart Life Application is at your service—available on both iOS and Android. Social media channels are also in the mix, from Facebook at Metropolitan Electricity Authority MEA to X at @mea_news, and even Line at MEA Connect (@MEAthailand). For direct assistance, the MEA Call Center Online 1130 is accessible 24/7, promising prompt and efficient support.
So, while the removal and underground placement of cables on Sutthisan Winitchai Road is no small feat, it represents a significant leap towards a safer and more aesthetically pleasing urban landscape. With strong collaboration and innovative systems, MEA and its partners are setting the stage for a brighter, better organized, and more beautiful Bangkok.
This is awesome! Finally, Bangkok is catching up with other modern cities. The underground cables will make the city look so much cleaner.
Totally agree, John! I can’t stand seeing those messy cables everywhere. This will definitely improve the city’s image.
Sure, it sounds good on paper but have you guys thought about the inevitable chaos during the construction phase?
UrbanSkeptic, that’s a valid point. But short-term pain for long-term gain, right? I’m sure MEA has considered these disruptions and has plans to minimize them.
Isn’t this just another way for the government to waste our money? These projects always go over budget and take ages to complete.
Nancy, you might feel that way, but this project has a clear goal: safety and aesthetics. It’s hard to put a price on that.
Also, organizing the cables could reduce electronic waste and the environmental impact. Think about the long-term benefits!
I’m a bit worried about the potential for corruption in such a massive project. We need transparency to ensure funds aren’t misused.
Transparency should definitely be a priority. I hope MEA uses the Smart CCM system to its full potential to keep everything above board.
Absolutely, Joe. Digital systems can help, but only if they’re administered with strict oversight.
Can anyone tell me if this will affect my internet connection during the transition? I work from home and can’t afford any downtime.
Good point! They better coordinate with ISPs to make sure our connections stay stable. Has the article mentioned anything about that?
No, it didn’t, Grower134. But I hope they thought of everything. Maybe someone here knows more details?
What about the historical look of some areas? Will this modernizing project affect the charm of older neighborhoods?
Interesting point, Sue. Modernization often clashes with preservation. I guess it’s about finding the right balance.
Exactly, Rick. I hope they consult with heritage experts before making drastic changes.
This project is great! More underground infrastructure means less risk of power outages during storms.
GreenThumb, I’d never considered that! You’re right, fewer outages would be a huge benefit.
We’re celebrating now, but let’s wait and see how many delays and budget overruns come up before this is completed by 2024.
From an engineering perspective, laying cables underground isn’t simple. It requires precise planning and exceptional coordination.
Sam, do you think MEA has the expertise to pull this off without too many issues?
Ali, they have experience, but large-scale projects inevitably face hurdles. It’s how they handle these challenges that will count.
I hope this means we’ll see more public spaces being beautified. Bangkok could use more parks and less clutter.
Wait till they start digging up the roads. Traffic is going to be a nightmare!
construction_critic, that might be true temporarily, but don’t forget the end result—a more organized and safer city for everyone.
Do you think this will set a standard for other cities in Thailand?
Mary, it should! If Bangkok can do it successfully, other cities might follow suit. Leading by example.
Thira, don’t hold your breath. Just because it works in one place doesn’t mean it’ll work everywhere else.